Black Bulls head coach Helder Duarte (right) and his deputy.
Associação Black Bulls FC coach Helder Duarte has issued a passionate plea to his Mozambican team, reminding them of the club’s history and values ahead of the CAF Confederation Cup final group game against Al Masry this weekend.
Duarte said this as the Mozambican champions, whose home ground in Maputo is not certified, remain holed up in Cairo, Egypt, to wind up their continental Group D assignments with Al Masry after losing 3-1 to Zamalek last weekend.
“We're at a crucial moment, preparing for the new sporting season and the next game. I want to share some words reinforcing the values that guide us and our vision as a club,” the Portuguese mentor wrote to the team’s players, coaches, technical team and staff.
“We remember that we are a young club, with only seven years in existence, but with a strong spirit and an unbreakable will to overcome challenges. Every obstacle is an opportunity for us to grow and learn. This is how we have been facing international games and this is how we will continue.”
The two-time Mocambola league winners hinted at beefing up the team ahead of the new season in the former Portuguese colony.
“We're strengthening the team with new faces and new energies, but we never forget the commitment and dedication. Preparation and responsibility are the backbone of our work. Everyone has a role and a responsibility. In this spirit, we prepare for the next game and all the challenges ahead,” Duarte added.
The table anchors Black Bulls (four points) need a win at all costs against Al Masry (six points) on January 19 2025 to secure a quarterfinal place. The Mozambicans must also pray for Enyimba’s loss to leaders Zamalek, who have 11 points, six points ahead of the Nigerians.
In previous games for the group, Black Bulls lost 2-0 to Zamalek in the first leg before holding Al Masry to a one-all draw and then stunning Enyimba 3-0, with the Nigerians getting their revenge with a 4-1 win in the reverse fixture,
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